The Basics
BSA Guide to Advancement
The definitive source for the mechanics of advancement across all Program levels. Always consult the Guide when questions arise regarding rank advancement, boards of review, merit badges, the path to Eagle and more.
Cub Scout Advancement
The Cub Scout program is centered primarily in the den, the home, and the neighborhood, but often takes place in the outdoors. It leads to advancement through six ranks, culminating in his achieving his Arrow of Light and advancing into Boy Scouts.
Scout's BSA Advancement
Advancement at this level presents a Scout with a series of challenges in a fun and educational manner. As he completes the requirements he achieves the three aims of Scouting: to develop character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and to develop physical and mental fitness.
Sea Scout Advancement
Sea Scouts has its own distinct language, customs, and advancement track. Each level marks progressive growth as a seaman and leader, culminating in the prestigious Quartermaster rank.
Venturing Advancement
Venturing is for young men and women who are 14 through 20 years old, or who are 13 and have completed the eighth grade. It offers young people adventure with a purpose that serves to build character, promote citizenship, and develop physical and mental fitness. Venturing youth earn Awards in recognition of their advancement.
Internet Advancement 2.0 Reporting
Unit-level tools for online recording of a youth's individual progress through the ranks. The BSA continues to improve it's online reporting capability. Leaders must go through their my.scouting.org to get to IA 2.0.
End users will access Internet Advancement via one of the following locations using their my.Scouting credentials:
- At scoutbook.scouting.org.
- From the Legacy Tools menu in my.Scouting.org.
- Through a link in Scoutbook.com.
- From the current Internet Advancement Platform.
Visit help.scoutbook.com for answers to commonly asked questions.
The Next Level
Disabilities Awareness
Youth with physical disabilities and youth and adults with developmental or cognitive challenges are welcome in the Boy Scouts of America. Three Fires Council is committed to providing an inclusive Scouting experience for our members with special needs.
STEM
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is an initiative by the BSA to encourage the natural curiosity of youth members and their sense of wonder about these fields through existing programs. From archery to welding, Scouts can't help but enjoy the wide range of STEM-related activities. To support this initiative, the BSA developed the Nova Awards program so that youth members have fun and receive recognition for their efforts. Visit the TFC Calendar to find upcoming STEM-related activities.
Life to Eagle
The pinnacle of Scouting is for a young man to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. To earn his Eagle, a Scout must demonstrate his commitment to learning, provide leadership, develop outdoor skills and provide selfless service to his community. We've provided a set of tools, guides, forms and essential links to assist Parents and Scouts along their Trail to Eagle.
Merit Badges
The Merit Badge Program is at the very heart of Scouting. A Scout may chose from over 130 badges across an expansive number of topics - from the great outdoors, to STEM to hobbies and sports pursuits - there's a merit badge that will appeal to his passions and interests. Visit the TFC Calendar for year-round merit badge opportunities.
Scouting.org has a great page describing the Merit Badge Program. You can read it here.
Adult Recognition and Awards
Our volunteer parents and uniformed leaders deserve recognition for the countless hours they give to the youth of Three Fires Council. From service and religious affiliation to outdoor activities to conservation and leadership at the unit, District and Council levels - there are tons of ways to recognize and celebrate the contributions of our selfless volunteers. Visit the BSA's Awards Central for all the details.